“You mistake strategy for sentiment,” I say.
“Do I,” he answers smoothly. “Because the optics suggest otherwise.”
“You question my control in front of my warriors,” I say evenly. “Choose your next words carefully.”
“I question your priorities,” Gideon replies. “Pack security must come before personal interest.”
The implication lands where he intends it to.
Micah shifts his stance slightly, eyes narrowing at the tension. Darren keeps his gaze forward, but his shoulders tighten.
“She identified a repeat corridor in the attacks,” I say. “That benefits the pack.”
“Or exposes it,” Gideon says. “Granting her access to patrol analysis increases risk.”
“She works under supervision,” I reply.
“Under Ciaran,” he adds, tone edged with suggestion.
The accusation hangs in the air, subtle but sharp.
I take a measured step closer, closing the space between us without raising my voice.
“You will not posture during combat drills,” I say. “If you have a challenge, bring it formally.”
“I am safeguarding our future,” he answers. “If the human becomes a liability, your protection will not save her.”
“She will not become one,” I reply.
“You cannot guarantee that outcome,” he presses.
“I can contain it,” I say.
For a moment, his composure shifts, revealing calculation beneath restraint. He studies my face as if searching for fracture.
A branch snaps at the tree line before he can continue.
Kieran Rourke steps out of the shadows with steady stride, dark curls tied back and leather jacket streaked with fresh mud. A thin cut marks his jaw, and dried blood traces the edge without concern.
“Alpha,” he says, voice clear and direct.
I turn fully toward him, allowing the tension with Gideon to cool but not dissipate.
“Report,” I say.
“There’s a deer carcass near the east road,” he replies. “Within sight of passing traffic.”
The warriors stiffen at once.
“Describe it,” I say.
“Throat torn clean,” he answers. “Abdomen opened but untouched. The body was positioned facing the road.”
Gideon exhales softly. “Another display.”
Kieran’s gaze flicks toward him briefly, then returns to me.
“How recent,” I ask.
